4 Best Restaurants in Isla Margarita, Venezuela

In the very heart of Pampatar lies this inviting Mediterranean trattoria. International clientele mix with locals for romantic dinners or drinks at the well-stocked bar (try a mojito or a frozen Casa Caranta cocktail). The specialties of the house include homemade fettucini with a rotating menu of sauces, and fresh fish such as dorado (mahimahi) in a variety of preparations—try it drizzled in red curry sauce or simmering in a fragrant broth. This old colonial house also serves as an art gallery: local artwork and charming antiques are tastefully exhibited throughout. Strong coffee and a slice of tres leches cake are the way to end your feast.

Head for Charlie, in Pampatar, to dine on always-on-the-mark pasta. The cozy space is perfect for families or couples; you'll see a mixed clientele happily sipping vino tinto (red wine) and often ordering the house specialty: linguini neri, fresh pasta cooked up with squid in its own ink.

A large, multilevel open-air bar/restaurant perched just below the Flamingo Beach Hotel in Pampatar, Guayoyo (Spanish for a local coffee) is a hip place to spend a night on the town. The food and service isn't quite as memorable as the ocean views at sunset—the eatery is built right into the cliffside. Still, they do grill up a yummy dorado or mahimahi.

Put on your strappy heels (or your swankiest tie) for a night out in Pamapatar at this whitewashed Mediterranean restaurant. Good service, white linens, and a small but interesting menu make for a festive dinner. Fresh salads, pastas, and fish dishes such as salmon with papaya compote are all good bets. If you're not up for a full meal, try their delicious ceviche appetizer.